5 Albums Leah Wellbaum Can’t Live Without
Leah Wellbaum is a vibrant personality defined by a delightful blend of enthusiasm and mischief. Currently based in Los Angeles, C.A., she lives life as a fruit enthusiast and a rascal, a spirit that perfectly mirrors her eclectic taste in music and her adventurous outlook.
Beyond the typical city rhythm, Wellbaum harbors a deep desire for the open water, dreaming of floating amidst wise and hospitable elephant seals in the middle of the ocean. This yearning for freedom and the wild contrasts beautifully with her highly curated musical landscape.
Her current music collection is a fascinating tapestry, weaving together musical theatre, the intricate sounds of Khruangbin, the complexity of Chopin and Ktlyn, and the raw energy of Cake. This mix is only part of her sonic world, which also includes the soothing tones of Tibetan singing bowls and the powerful voice of Megan Thee Stallion, demonstrating a remarkable breadth of musical appreciation.
For Wellbaum, the preferred format for experiencing music is unequivocally live music, a testament to her preference for visceral, shared experiences over passive listening.
Among her favorite albums, she has curated a list of works that speak to complex emotions and bold artistry. One standout is the original motion picture soundtrack for Hedwig and the Angry Inch, a film she credits with changing her perspective on gender fluidity through its gorgeous, mythological, and humorous lens. It remains a soundtrack she returns to whenever she feels lost.
Another deeply influential piece is The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do by Fiona Apple. Wellbaum admires Fiona for her virtuosity, mastering the art of pairing challenging poetry with effortless music. Apple’s work is celebrated for its boldness, surrealism, and permission to explore the dark corners of consciousness.
Her appreciation for guitar music is equally profound, highlighted by the classic catalog of John Fahey from 1959 to 1977. This collection introduced her to the magic of fingerpicking and established Fahey as a leading sonic reference, spanning traditional hymns to blues and experimental soundscapes.
Wellbaum also celebrates the powerful and revolutionary spirit found in hip-hop, with the album Black Reign by Queen Latifah. This album is seen as positive, peace-forward, and overtly feminist, advocating for equality and a better world through powerful messaging.
Finally, her passion for blending the specific and the universal is evident in her appreciation for Hole’s Live Through This. This record serves as a masterclass in tackling gender dynamics, prompting listeners to question their own positions of power and victimhood in a beautifully invitational way.
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